Domestic Abuse: How to Protect Yourself and Your Children
For many people, admitting that they are in an abusive relationship can be a difficult thing to come to terms with. Domestic abuse is a crime that is often hidden behind closed doors, and we understand that it can be incredibly painful to admit that you and your children could be at risk at the hands of a loved one.
But it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. In the year ending March 2023, police recorded 1,453,867 domestic abuse-related crimes and incidents in England and Wales.
In this article, we’ll discuss what domestic abuse can look like, and steps you can take to safeguard yourself and your children.
Recognising signs of domestic abuse
Domestic abuse rears its ugly head in many forms, and it’s important that you are able to recognise signs of abuse that could be inflicted upon you and your children.
Although physical abuse is the most obvious form of abuse to acknowledge, many people are also subjected to emotional abuse. Gaslighting, verbal insults, intimidation and threats are all forms of emotional abuse, and it’s important that you are aware of this happening in your relationship as it can have a devastating impact on your mental health and your confidence.
A controlling partner may also be able to inflict financial abuse on you, whether that’s demanding money from you or controlling how and when you spend your money. If you can, consider separating your finances so your partner is unable to access them, so you know you have a security blanket in place for you and your children as you navigate this difficult situation.
Creating a safety plan
If you fear that you or your loved ones could find yourself in situations where you could come to harm at the hands of your partner, it’s vital that you have a plan in place to keep you all safe.
If tensions begin to rise and you notice the tell-tale signs that you or your children could be in danger, there are precautionary steps you can take to ensure your safety.
Think about establishing an emergency exit plan, so, should the worst happen, you can swiftly remove yourself from the situation before things escalate. Consider safe spaces where you and your children can escape, whether that is with friends or family, or a room within your home where you can secure the door until the situation cools down.
Leveraging family support
We know that talking about difficulties in your relationship, particularly when it comes to abuse in its many forms, can be a tough situation to navigate. However, it is so important that you feel you have people around you that you can open up to, and that you have a safe space where you can talk honestly about what you are dealing with.
Emotional support can play a vital role in helping you cope with difficult situations, so you shouldn’t underestimate just how important having loved ones around you at this stressful time. Your friends and family can provide you and your children with a safe place to escape to and they may also be able to provide you with financial support should you need it if you are able to leave your abusive relationship behind.
Legal protections and restraining orders
We know that sometimes, being in an abusive relationship can make you feel like you have nowhere to turn to, but this isn’t the case. There are many avenues of support you could pursue to protect yourself and your children, and legal measures such as acquiring a restraining order can help keep you and your loved ones out of harm’s way.
If you feel that you need additional support as you navigate your abusive relationship and come to terms with your decision to leave an abusive partner, you could seek the help of specialist family law solicitors. These professionals will be able to support you through the entire process and put the wellbeing of you and your family first at this difficult time.
